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Scarlet Fever
Scarlet Fever - Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Scarlet Fever
A physical examination is best way for a doctor to diagnose scarlet fever. Scarlet fever usually happens to children. Examining the child’s throat and glands and possible rash can help determine whether the child has scarlet fever.
The doctor might also get a swab of the throat. The diagnosis for strep throat can help to determine also whether it is actually scarlet fever. If strep throat is ruled out, the doctor can start treatment for scarlet fever.
Sometimes blood tests are also done based on the severity of the symptoms. The blood test will show a high count of leukocytosis and a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
If not diagnosed correctly, it could lead to its own set of complications. Septic complications are usually what happen because of untreated scarlet fever.
Streptococcal pneumonia, full blown sepsis, or meningitis are some conditions that could occur as a result of untreated scarlet fever. In acute cases, the infection can spread to the heart, joints, skin and the nervous system.
References
- J.J. Guo, C.M. Kuo, Y.C. Chuang, J.W. Hong, R.L. Chou, T.I. Chen, The effects of garlic-supplemented diets on antibacterial activity against Streptococcus iniae and on growth in orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides, Aquaculture, Volumes 364–365, 5 October 2012, Pages 33-38, ISSN 0044-8486, 10.1016/j.aquaculture.2012.07.023.